Allison Choong Ming Sze

Allison Choong is a fearless young leader creating tangible change through advocacy, storytelling, and public action. She co-founded and illustrated Safiya Speaks Up, a children’s book and mentor’s guide that empowers girls to recognise and respond to gender-based violence. In 2024, Allison represented Malaysia at the What Girls Want protest in front of the United Nations, where more than 50 young women, including Nobel Laureate Malala Yousafzai, gathered to demand that world leaders prioritise girls in global decision-making. Standing alongside global advocates, she delivered a powerful speech reminding leaders that girls are experts in their own lives and must be centered in solutions. She was recently named Canon Young Champion of 2025 for her work championing girl-led initiatives worldwide.

To me, making an impact means shifting mindsets, and opening opportunities for future generations. I am a firm believer of planting seeds of courage and empowering communities to carry the work forward.